A Full Circle of Family and Growth

Maritza’s connection with La Causa began when she was just an infant, continuing a family tradition. “I first came to La Causa when I was an infant,” Maritza reflects. “I am actually the second one in my family to join; my older sister was here first. I have five other siblings, and each and every one of us has been a part of La Causa. It’s been incredible to grow up with familiar faces year after year.”

What started as a place for care and early education has evolved into a vibrant community for Maritza and her family. “This isn’t just somewhere where your kids go to be watched. It becomes a community, a bigger family,” she says.

Quality Care with a Community Focus

Our Early Education & Care Center Director, Sarah Smith, elaborates on the center’s role: “Our early education and care center is a high-quality child care facility designed for children from 4 weeks through 12 years. We are a 5-star center located on the south side of Milwaukee. We impact primarily the Hispanic and Latino population, with 97% of our families being low-income. By bringing high-quality care into the neighborhoods where families live, we ensure that children are well-prepared for school and able to start their educational journey strong.”

This commitment to quality care and community integration is evident in Maritza’s experience. “It’s amazing to see my kids now friends with my friends’ kids,” she says. “The community keeps growing into one.”

Generations of Connection and Trust

Maritza’s story is not just one of personal growth but also of generational impact. “We are three generations in. I currently have several staff members who were here as children. Their children were here, and now their grandchildren are here,” Sarah Smith notes. This multi-generational connection speaks volumes about the trust and value La Causa brings to the community.

For Maritza, the sense of safety, care, and love provided by the staff is invaluable. “The staff members who cared for me as a child are now part of my children’s lives,” she shares. “It’s something so positive to know that they played a big part in getting me to where I am today.”

A Home Away from Home

La Causa’s role in preserving and celebrating culture is central to Maritza’s experience. “La Causa helps us keep our culture and understand our culture, making us not feel isolated from our world,” she says. The center has been more than a school; it has been a home for Maritza and her family, offering a sense of belonging and cultural connection.

“Being here at La Causa made me feel like I was home,” Maritza concludes. Her story is a powerful testament to the lasting impact of La Causa’s commitment to community, care, and cultural continuity.

Celebrate the Legacy

Maritza’s journey is a beautiful reminder of the difference that La Causa makes in the lives of its families. To learn more about our programs and how we continue to support and uplift our community, please visit Get Involved and Make a Difference! – La Causa